Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Lentil Confetti Salad
Rice, lentil and vegetable dish garnished with parsley

Lentil Confetti Salad

A lentil and rice salad mixed with an Italian dressing that makes a hearty and satisfying side dish.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Baked Bananas with Pecans
Baked banana halves with raisins and a pecan topping.

Baked Bananas with Pecans

Baked bananas are a sweet and simple dessert with plenty of nutrients. A fun recipe for kids to make!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 Bananas
Oven Baked Salmon
Baked salmon filets on tin foil.

Oven Baked Salmon

Salmon is the star in this simple and tasty recipe ready in under 30 minutes.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 Servings
Bruschetta Salad
Flavorful salad of tomatoes, basil and croutons is shown in a serving bowl.

Bruschetta Salad

Fresh tomatoes and herbs combined with crunchy croutons make the perfect summer salad.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 Cups
Jollof Rice
Big bowl of Jollof Rice shown served with plantains and beans.

Jollof Rice

This flavorful variation of a West African favorite includes brown rice, tomatoes, onions, peppers, broth and seasonings. Thanks to the OSU Extension African Heritage Work Group for this recipe.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
55 to 60 minutes
Makes:
8 to 9 cups
Pasta with Greens and Beans
Bowl of vegetable pasta sprinkled with grated parmesan.

Pasta with Greens and Beans

Your favorite Italian flavors combine to make the perfect pasta dinner.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
8 cups